ASTM F1798-13

5.1 Spinal implants are generally composed of several components that, when connected together, form a spinal implant construct. Spinal implant constructs are designed to provide some stability to the spine while arthrodesis takes place. This test method outlines standardized evaluations of different interconnection mechanisms to facilitate comparison between different designs. Comparisons must be made cautiously and with careful analysis, taking into account the effects that design differences can have on the loading configurations.

5.2 This test method is used to quantify the static and fatigue properties of different implant interconnection designs. The mechanical tests are conducted 5.3 The loading of spinal implant constructs 1.1 This test method covers the measurement of uniaxial static and fatigue strength, and resistance to loosening of the component interconnection mechanisms of spinal arthrodesis implants.

1.2 The purpose of this test method is to provide a means of mechanically characterizing different designs of spinal implant interconnections. Ultimately, the various components and interconnections should be combined for static and fatigue testing of the spinal implant construct. It is not the intention of this test method to address the analysis of spinal implant constructs or subconstructs or to define levels of performance of spinal implants as insufficient knowledge is available to predict the consequences of the use of particular spinal implant designs.

1.3 This test method sets out definitions for use in measuring the strength of component interconnections of spinal implants, possible test methods themselves, and the reporting of test results.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard, with the exception of angular measurements, which may be reported in terms of either degrees or radians.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.